YNN.com

Binghamton / Oneonta

Change region

  44º

You are not signed in  |  Sign in here  |  Help

You're viewing a lite version of ynn.com

Time Warner Cable customers: Sign in with your TWC ID for video access.

Get my TWC ID. | Get TWC service. | Read the FAQ.

03/22/2011 06:27 AM

Cornell revokes recognition of fraternity

By: Web Staff

  To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.

Then come back here and refresh the page.


ITHACA, N.Y. -- Cornell University officials say it was a situation that required immediate action. That's why the school has revoked recognition of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity after the death of 19-year old sophomore George Desdunes.

Officials say Desdunes was given alcohol while with members of the fraternity back on February 25. Desdunes was found unresponsive in the frat house, and officials say the members recognized his condition, but failed to call for help.

Now all members must vacate the house, and the fraternity will be suspended for at least five years.

"This is a national problem, and it's one that every university and every college across the united states must be concerned about. And it's one that obviously has taken a very sad turn here at Cornell University. And this is a stark reminder of the importance of a continue to redouble our efforts to promote healthy habits and healthy behavior across our campus," said Cornell's Tommy Bruce.

The fraternity members will be offered campus housing.

The investigation into Desdunes death is still ongoing.